The Events Industry Council (EIC) has announced the launch of Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID) 2026 and advocacy framework, a year-round initiative that will spotlight the significance of business events and exhibitions as the human catalyst for global growth. The day will include the release of the 2026 Global Economic Significance of Business Events Study, research that measures the industry’s economic contribution.
Set for 6 May 2026, GMID will bring together event professionals, organisations, destinations and partners from across the global ecosystem to demonstrate how in-person gatherings drive economic expansion, accelerate innovation and strengthen connections across industries and borders. This year’s theme – Business Events and Exhibitions: The Human Catalyst for Global Growth – underscores the essential role of face-to-face engagement in unlocking opportunity, fostering collaboration and advancing progress in an increasingly complex world.
Amy Calvert, president and CEO of the EIC said: “At a time of increasing complexity and fragmentation, our industry plays a vital role in bringing people together to share ideas, build understanding and move the world forward. Our ability to shape communities through positive economic and societal impact is our best story and our people are our best resource.”
“Global Meetings Industry Day belongs to every part of our ecosystem – from planners and suppliers to destinations, educators and corporate leaders. When we show up together, we demonstrate the true scale and influence of our industry, and we inspire those in our industry – those who can be our best champions,” said Stephanie Harris, president of the Incentive Research Foundation and 2026 EIC Board chair.
From local activations to global campaigns, organisations are encouraged to participate in GMID by hosting events, engaging policymakers, sharing data and amplifying their stories across digital channels.
“Together, GMID and the Economic Significance Study create a unified opportunity for our global community to tell a stronger, more consistent story about the value of business events,” Calvert added. “This is our moment to demonstrate not only what we do, but why it matters.”
Founding sponsors for GMID and the Economic Significance Study include:
MPI (Global Visionary Sponsor); PCMA (Global Visionary Sponsor); Ceasar’s Entertainment; Freeman; Hilton; IMEX Group; Incentive Research Foundation (IRF); Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board; The mci Group; MGM Resorts International; Resorts World Las Vegas; Society of Independent Show Organisers (SISO); US Travel Association and Venetian Resort Las Vegas.
To learn more and access the GMID 2026 and Advocacy toolkit, visit: https://news.eventscouncil.org/gmid/
